Can anti-tarnish bag be washed?

I found two large drawstring bags to keep silver from tarnishing. They are very dirty from being in the attic for decades. If I hand-wash them, will it take out the tarnish-proofing?

Jane T., Centreville, Va.

If they are dusty, shake them out well or put in the dryer on "fluff" for a few minutes. I tested my hints again with several bags, one more than 50 years old. I rinsed one in a bowl of cool tap water and one the same but with a drop of dish soap. I repeated until the water was clear. They both seem fine. What have you got to lose?

Heloise

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